Swiss railway BLS has signed a €110M framework deal with Siemens Mobility to equip its regional network with ETCS Level 2 train control systems, starting with the Bern–Schwarzenburg line by 2029. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Swiss railway BLS has signed a €110M framework deal with Siemens Mobility to equip its regional network with ETCS Level 2 train control systems, starting with the Bern–Schwarzenburg line by 2029.
Source, photo: www.railwaygazette.com

The initial phase includes upgrading 17 km of track from ETCS Level 1 to Level 2 and removing traditional signals between Bern Fischermätteli and Schwarzenburg. This will streamline operations and reduce roadside infrastructure.

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The Swiss railway corridor poses unique technical challenges due to its blend of urban and rural environments, along with multiple level crossings requiring precise traffic coordination.

To address these challenges, Siemens will implement a smart level crossing management system. This new technology will shorten closure times and reduce disruptions for road traffic without compromising safety.

This modernisation will simplify maintenance and reduce the number of interlocking systems in operation. It also creates a scalable model for expanding ETCS Level 2 across additional routes in Switzerland.

Swiss railway modernisation supports ERTMS strategy

The deal aligns with BLS’s long-term ERTMS rollout, offering flexibility for future projects over the next decade. The pilot route will serve as a benchmark for similar upgrades on other regional lines.

Siemens Mobility’s solution supports efficient traffic management tailored to the network’s diverse geography. Their approach ensures consistent service delivery and improved planning capacity.

Swiss railway and Siemens set new digital standard

BLS Netz AG’s Head of Automation, Daniel Pixley, called Siemens the ideal partner for advancing Switzerland’s regional rail network using ETCS Level 2 technology.

Marc Ludwig, CEO of Siemens Mobility Rail Infrastructure, confirmed the project’s strategic importance. He emphasized the value of long-term planning and custom integration in both urban and rural sections.

Source, photo: www.railwaygazette.com

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